Washington is a cornerstone of the nation's tech and cultural life. This is the state that birthed Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks, all in the same city. Though their founders may have been educated elsewhere, they relied on their local area to provide the talent they need to thrive. Further, since these companies have risen to prominence, they have donated millions to local educational and cultural institutions while employing countless students.
You can take advantage of this economic boon by seeking out the best colleges and universities in Washington. The state offers some of the nation's premier research universities, fantastically eclectic small public colleges, and much more. Plus, if you live in a western state, you may be able to attend a Washington state institution for the in-state tuition. Likewise, Washington students can attend any public college on the West Coast, Hawaii, Alaska, and even states as far inland as North Dakota, at the in-state rate.
While the economy in Seattle has been booming for quite some time, it is poised to spread the wealth to other parts of the state. Spokane has been undergoing strong growth lately, and you'll also find new opportunities around Richland, and Yakima.
How Much Can You Make by Earning a Degree in Washington?
Earning a college degree in Washington can significantly boost your earning potential. Recent data shows that graduates from Washington universities earn impressive salaries, with many seeing substantial income growth over time. University of Washington computer science graduates earn a median salary of $116,000, highlighting the lucrative opportunities available in the tech sector.
The economic benefits of higher education extend beyond just tech fields. Six years after enrollment, Washington State University alumni average $42,400 annually, increasing to $54,400 after a decade. University of Washington Seattle Campus graduates fare even better, with average earnings of $48,700 after six years and $65,800 after ten years.
Your choice of major can greatly impact your earning potential. While STEM fields often lead to higher salaries, various degree programs in Washington offer strong financial returns. Pursuing higher education in the state can provide you with valuable skills, knowledge, and connections to enhance your career prospects and long-term economic stability.
Education Level & National Average Median Compensation
| NO FORMAL EDUCATION | HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA | ASSOCIATE DEGREE | BACHELOR’S DEGREE | MASTER’S DEGREE | DOCTORAL DEGREE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,816* | $46,748* | $55,016* | $77,636* | $90,324* | $109,668* |
Top 25 Best Associate Degree Programs in Washington
Renton Technical College
Score: 79.67
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,723
- Out-of-State:$7,257
- Net Price: $7,621
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 3,060
- Undergrad Students: 3,060
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $43,200
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Walla Walla Community College
Score: 78.63
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,513
- Out-of-State:$7,967
- Net Price: $10,645
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 2,982
- Undergrad Students: 2,982
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $40,900
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Peninsula College
Score: 78.06
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,586
- Out-of-State:$5,111
- Net Price: $6,525
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 1,837
- Undergrad Students: 1,837
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,700
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Shoreline Community College
Score: 77.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,388
- Out-of-State:$7,430
- Net Price: $11,767
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 54%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 4,460
- Undergrad Students: 4,460
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $49,400
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Bates Technical College
Score: 74.09
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,569
- Out-of-State:$11,518
- Net Price: $6,434
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 30%
- Total Enrollment: 3,817
- Undergrad Students: 3,817
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,500
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Bellevue College
Score: 73.61
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,305
- Out-of-State:$10,183
- Net Price: $11,926
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 11,472
- Undergrad Students: 11,472
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $52,600
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Score: 72.55
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,156
- Out-of-State:$11,017
- Net Price: $8,545
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 3,357
- Undergrad Students: 3,357
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $44,300
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Bellingham Technical College
Score: 71.52
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,226
- Out-of-State:$5,555
- Net Price: $7,517
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 1,850
- Undergrad Students: 1,850
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,000
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Cascadia College
Score: 70.75
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,914
- Out-of-State:$10,864
- Net Price: $13,863
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 2,013
- Undergrad Students: 2,013
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $45,700
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Green River College
Score: 70.31
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,580
- Out-of-State:$5,105
- Net Price: $13,621
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 7,361
- Undergrad Students: 7,361
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $44,200
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Clover Park Technical College
Score: 69.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,634
- Out-of-State:$6,634
- Net Price: $6,216
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 3,040
- Undergrad Students: 3,040
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,100
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
South Puget Sound Community College
Score: 69.45
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,103
- Out-of-State:$5,637
- Net Price: $11,896
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 4,252
- Undergrad Students: 4,252
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $33,500
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Everett Community College
Score: 69.15
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,301
- Out-of-State:$10,180
- Net Price: $13,184
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Total Enrollment: 6,211
- Undergrad Students: 6,211
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,600
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
North Seattle College
Score: 68.75
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,058
- Out-of-State:$5,547
- Net Price: $10,864
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 5,017
- Undergrad Students: 5,017
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $46,300
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Centralia College
Score: 68.06
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,109
- Out-of-State:$5,643
- Net Price: $12,280
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 2,335
- Undergrad Students: 2,335
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,300
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Big Bend Community College
Score: 68.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,909
- Out-of-State:$5,443
- Net Price: $12,650
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 1,786
- Undergrad Students: 1,786
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,800
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Spokane Community College
Score: 67.97
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,057
- Out-of-State:$5,494
- Net Price: $6,773
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 6,286
- Undergrad Students: 6,286
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,100
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Highline College
Score: 67.5
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,623
- Out-of-State:$5,156
- Net Price: $13,467
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 5,126
- Undergrad Students: 5,126
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,800
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Seattle Central College
Score: 67.34
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,865
- Out-of-State:$5,354
- Net Price: $8,093
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 5,210
- Undergrad Students: 5,210
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,400
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Tacoma Community College
Score: 67.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,920
- Out-of-State:$11,030
- Net Price: $10,648
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 5,771
- Undergrad Students: 5,771
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,900
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Wenatchee Valley College
Score: 66.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,118
- Out-of-State:$5,652
- Net Price: $11,977
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 2,819
- Undergrad Students: 2,819
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,100
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Olympic College
Score: 64.96
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,197
- Out-of-State:$9,740
- Net Price: $11,105
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- Total Enrollment: 5,413
- Undergrad Students: 5,413
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,100
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Whatcom Community College
Score: 63.2
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,146
- Out-of-State:$11,096
- Net Price: $11,629
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Total Enrollment: 3,490
- Undergrad Students: 3,490
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $35,900
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Grays Harbor College
Score: 62.47
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,751
- Out-of-State:$10,629
- Net Price: $6,475
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 1,663
- Undergrad Students: 1,663
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,400
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Edmonds College
Score: 62.38
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,669
- Out-of-State:$10,553
- Net Price: $14,049
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 6,028
- Undergrad Students: 6,028
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,100
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in Washington
University of Washington
Score: 94.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,643
- Out-of-State:$41,997
- Net Price: $11,023
- Acceptance Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 55,620
- Undergrad Students: 39,515
- Graduate Students: 16,105
- Grads Salary: $87,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
University of Washington-Bothell
Score: 81.88
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,559
- Out-of-State:$41,913
- Net Price: $10,013
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 5,809
- Undergrad Students: 5,248
- Graduate Students: 561
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Pacific Lutheran University
Score: 78.95
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $50,964
- Out-of-State:$50,964
- Net Price: $23,841
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 71%
- Total Enrollment: 2,737
- Undergrad Students: 2,393
- Graduate Students: 344
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Gonzaga University
Score: 78.73
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $53,500
- Out-of-State:$53,500
- Net Price: $40,295
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 7,306
- Undergrad Students: 5,163
- Graduate Students: 2,143
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
University of Washington-Tacoma
Score: 78.43
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,817
- Out-of-State:$42,171
- Net Price: $11,290
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 4,777
- Undergrad Students: 4,014
- Graduate Students: 763
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Washington State University
Score: 77.91
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,997
- Out-of-State:$29,073
- Net Price: $18,155
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 26,490
- Undergrad Students: 21,923
- Graduate Students: 4,567
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Seattle University
Score: 76.39
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $54,285
- Out-of-State:$54,285
- Net Price: $37,103
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Total Enrollment: 7,182
- Undergrad Students: 4,137
- Graduate Students: 3,045
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Whitman College
Score: 75.84
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $61,492
- Out-of-State:$61,492
- Net Price: $41,601
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 1,544
- Undergrad Students: 1,544
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Western Washington University
Score: 75.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,286
- Out-of-State:$27,853
- Net Price: $22,096
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Total Enrollment: 14,651
- Undergrad Students: 13,704
- Graduate Students: 947
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Saint Martin's University
Score: 74.18
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $44,210
- Out-of-State:$44,210
- Net Price: $22,779
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 1,505
- Undergrad Students: 1,267
- Graduate Students: 238
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Whitworth University
Score: 72.4
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $50,920
- Out-of-State:$50,920
- Net Price: $27,491
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 2,345
- Undergrad Students: 1,939
- Graduate Students: 406
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
University of Puget Sound
Score: 72.27
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,900
- Out-of-State:$59,900
- Net Price: $42,301
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 1,914
- Undergrad Students: 1,632
- Graduate Students: 282
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Seattle Pacific University
Score: 71.73
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $38,814
- Out-of-State:$38,814
- Net Price: $26,155
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 2,659
- Undergrad Students: 2,082
- Graduate Students: 577
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Central Washington University
Score: 71.72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,192
- Out-of-State:$26,771
- Net Price: $15,558
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Total Enrollment: 8,796
- Undergrad Students: 8,309
- Graduate Students: 487
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Northwest University
Score: 70.53
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $36,035
- Out-of-State:$36,035
- Net Price: $25,917
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 999
- Undergrad Students: 679
- Graduate Students: 320
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Walla Walla University
Score: 70.11
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $33,027
- Out-of-State:$33,027
- Net Price: $26,001
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Total Enrollment: 1,397
- Undergrad Students: 1,266
- Graduate Students: 131
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Eastern Washington University
Score: 67.87
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,353
- Out-of-State:$25,892
- Net Price: $13,786
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 10,741
- Undergrad Students: 7,246
- Graduate Students: 3,495
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
The Evergreen State College
Score: 66.11
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,999
- Out-of-State:$30,980
- Net Price: $18,480
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 2,320
- Undergrad Students: 2,108
- Graduate Students: 212
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Heritage University
Score: 64.72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,920
- Out-of-State:$19,920
- Net Price: $11,934
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 835
- Undergrad Students: 783
- Graduate Students: 52
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Score: 59.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,156
- Out-of-State:$11,017
- Net Price: $8,545
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 3,357
- Undergrad Students: 3,357
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Bellevue College
Score: 57.83
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,305
- Out-of-State:$10,183
- Net Price: $11,926
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 11,472
- Undergrad Students: 11,472
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Green River College
Score: 56.97
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,580
- Out-of-State:$5,105
- Net Price: $13,621
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 7,361
- Undergrad Students: 7,361
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
North Seattle College
Score: 55.76
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,058
- Out-of-State:$5,547
- Net Price: $10,864
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 5,017
- Undergrad Students: 5,017
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Walla Walla Community College
Score: 55.04
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,513
- Out-of-State:$7,967
- Net Price: $10,645
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 2,982
- Undergrad Students: 2,982
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $40,900
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Renton Technical College
Score: 54.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,723
- Out-of-State:$7,257
- Net Price: $7,621
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 3,060
- Undergrad Students: 3,060
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $45,900
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Top 20 Best Master's Programs in Washington
University of Washington
Score: 93.98
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,514
- Out-of-State:$31,392
- Net Price: $11,023
- Acceptance Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 55,620
- Undergrad Students: 39,515
- Graduate Students: 16,105
- Grads Salary: $87,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
University of Washington-Bothell
Score: 81.54
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,514
- Out-of-State:$31,392
- Net Price: $10,013
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 5,809
- Undergrad Students: 5,248
- Graduate Students: 561
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Pacific Lutheran University
Score: 79.01
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $32,476
- Out-of-State:$32,476
- Net Price: $23,841
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 71%
- Total Enrollment: 2,737
- Undergrad Students: 2,393
- Graduate Students: 344
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
University of Washington-Tacoma
Score: 78.74
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,514
- Out-of-State:$31,392
- Net Price: $11,290
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 4,777
- Undergrad Students: 4,014
- Graduate Students: 763
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Gonzaga University
Score: 77.99
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,841
- Out-of-State:$19,841
- Net Price: $40,295
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 7,306
- Undergrad Students: 5,163
- Graduate Students: 2,143
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Washington State University
Score: 77.89
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,675
- Out-of-State:$27,842
- Net Price: $18,155
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 26,490
- Undergrad Students: 21,923
- Graduate Students: 4,567
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Seattle University
Score: 76.04
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,012
- Out-of-State:$15,012
- Net Price: $37,103
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Total Enrollment: 7,182
- Undergrad Students: 4,137
- Graduate Students: 3,045
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Western Washington University
Score: 74.67
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,167
- Out-of-State:$25,285
- Net Price: $22,096
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Total Enrollment: 14,651
- Undergrad Students: 13,704
- Graduate Students: 947
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Saint Martin's University
Score: 74.54
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,152
- Out-of-State:$16,152
- Net Price: $22,779
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 1,505
- Undergrad Students: 1,267
- Graduate Students: 238
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Whitworth University
Score: 72.52
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,924
- Out-of-State:$12,924
- Net Price: $27,491
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 2,345
- Undergrad Students: 1,939
- Graduate Students: 406
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Seattle Pacific University
Score: 71.92
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,520
- Out-of-State:$20,520
- Net Price: $26,155
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 2,659
- Undergrad Students: 2,082
- Graduate Students: 577
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
University of Puget Sound
Score: 71.66
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $38,401
- Out-of-State:$38,401
- Net Price: $42,301
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 1,914
- Undergrad Students: 1,632
- Graduate Students: 282
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Central Washington University
Score: 71.58
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,721
- Out-of-State:$25,092
- Net Price: $15,558
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Total Enrollment: 8,796
- Undergrad Students: 8,309
- Graduate Students: 487
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Northwest University
Score: 70.85
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,639
- Out-of-State:$20,639
- Net Price: $25,917
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 999
- Undergrad Students: 679
- Graduate Students: 320
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Walla Walla University
Score: 69.95
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $27,105
- Out-of-State:$27,105
- Net Price: $26,001
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Total Enrollment: 1,397
- Undergrad Students: 1,266
- Graduate Students: 131
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Eastern Washington University
Score: 67.46
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,698
- Out-of-State:$28,043
- Net Price: $13,786
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 10,741
- Undergrad Students: 7,246
- Graduate Students: 3,495
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Heritage University
Score: 65.97
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,020
- Out-of-State:$10,020
- Net Price: $11,934
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 835
- Undergrad Students: 783
- Graduate Students: 52
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
The Evergreen State College
Score: 65.47
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,402
- Out-of-State:$27,882
- Net Price: $18,480
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 2,320
- Undergrad Students: 2,108
- Graduate Students: 212
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
City University of Seattle
Score: 47.73
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,167
- Out-of-State:$12,167
- Net Price: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 22%
- Graduation Rate: 17%
- Total Enrollment: 1,970
- Undergrad Students: 1,180
- Graduate Students: 790
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Antioch University-Seattle
Score: 38.1
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,016
- Out-of-State:$20,016
- Net Price: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: N/A
- Total Enrollment: 800
- Undergrad Students: 81
- Graduate Students: 719
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 5:1
Scholarships for Washington College Students
Everyone wants to shave down their education budget. You can do that in a lot of ways, but one reliable method is to win scholarships and grants. This is money that you won't have to pay back with interest, and which can be an enormous help to any student, no matter how large or small the award. That is, some scholarships will cover your entire tuition, room and board, and even books, but those are rare. More often you'll find scholarships that award around $500. Though that might not seem like much, even small scholarships help in the short term and they then pay off long-term. When you put a scholarship on your resume, employers will be impressed with your initiative and achievement.
ASC
Atlas Shrugged Contest
https://www.aynrand.org/students/essay-contests#overview
Amounts: $2,000 (1st Place); $250 (2nd Place); $100 (3rd Place); $25 (Finalists)
Deadline: Varies (Previously April)
While this more of an essay contest than a true scholarship program, the top prize of $2,000 will go towards helping you fund your studies. To win the contest, you must first read and study Ayn Rand's novel, Atlas Shrugged. Then, the Ayn Rand Institute has a set of three essay prompts/questions to work from. You may need to read additional Rand writings, but fans will find that this adds to their understanding of her particular philosophy.
NFBSP
National Federation of the Blind Scholarship Program
https://nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program
Amounts: $3,000-$12,000
Deadline: March 31
This prestigious scholarship is for visually impaired students with lofty goals. When you become a finalist, the NFB will provide funds to help you attend thier national conference. There, you and other finalists will be screened for the final winner's pool. To apply, be sure that you can prove legal blindness in both eyes, show an outstanding record of academic achievement, and have a number of community service projects to discuss.
KMPGFLP
KPMG Future Leaders Program
https://womensleadership.kpmg.us/charitable.html
Amounts: $10,000 (Renewable for 4 years)
Deadline: January 31
Women who have top academic achievement and financial need can apply for this highly-sought leadership program. When you win this award, you will be flown to Stanford University where you will meet Condoleeza Rice for a series of leadership seminars as well as golf lessons. After the retreat, you will be paired with a mentor from the program who will work with you until the next retreat. This program does more than offer money for college, it grooms young women for a lifetime of leadership.
WSUS
Washington State University Scholarships
https://admission.wsu.edu/scholarships/washington-resident/
Amounts: Up to Full Tuition
Deadline: FAFSA & WAFSA Deadlines
WSU students can apply to a number of scholarships that will help them pay for college. In fact, they make it very easy by offering you the WSU scholarship application that casts a wide net for scholarships, you'll need to fill out the FAFSA and WAFSA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid) forms, as well, to prove financial need. Some scholarships covered by this wide net include:
- Cougar Committment: for low-income Washington residents
- National Merit Scholarship: you will need a special recommendation for this award
- Regents Scholars Program: for Washington's best high school students
- Glenn Terrell Presidential Award: a $4,000 award that is open to first-year and transfer students
UWOMS
University of Washington's Office of Merit Scholarships, Fellowships, and Awards
http://expd.uw.edu/scholarships/
Amounts: Varies
Deadline: Varies
University of Washington students have a unique resource at their fingertips. This office helps students identify and apply for scholarships, fellowships, and awards. They will help you hone your application to best appeal to the awarding foundations. Since there are so many scholarships available, having a team on your side to help you sort them all out is an enormous advantage that most students do not have. As soon as you receive your admission letter you should reach out to this department and see how you can start your first year with a scholarship or two.
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